​From Beirut to Bankstown – the internationally acclaimed Lebanese film festival celebrates 10 years of showcasing the very best Lebanese cinema to an Australian audience.

The first ever festival as officially launched in the heart of Bankstown. What began with a festival viewed by around 900, has grown into the world's largest festival of its kind, attracting thousands. 

It’s a non-for-profit organisation which is run by a team of volunteers, has screened over 250 films from across the globe. The films are either filmed or based in Lebanon, or made by Lebanese film makers from Lebanon, Canada, France, Africa, the Americas and Australia and beyond.

Under the Patronage of Bryan Brown AM, the Lebanese Film Festival Association is run by a committee who are passionate about the arts, culture, film and community and grassroots initiatives.

The LFF kicks off its 10th anniversary celebrations with special guest, award winning Lebanese film maker, Ziad Doueiri. He’ll be joined by Bryan Brown and acclaimed journalist, author and diversity advocate Antoinette Lattouf as Master of Ceremonies, in celebrating the opening night.

You’ll be welcomed on the red carpet and treated to delicious Lebanese canapes and drinks, followed by formalities and film screening of “Memory Box” - an exceptional Canadian-Lebanese-French film, written and directed by Joana Hadjithomas and Khalil Joreige. 

The LFF begins in Bankstown before moving to the Sydney CBD, Bowral and Newcastle. The festival then travels to Canberra, Adelaide, Melbourne and Brisbane.

Canterbury-Bankstown Mayor Khal Asfour says he’s looking forward to seeing some thought-provoking and entertaining films.

“The Lebanese Film Festival always features films that are quite simply mind-blowing. It’s also a time to really think about how incredible these film makers are, that many of these films are created amid a backdrop of hardship,” Mayor Asfour says.

“The films also challenge the perceptions of Lebanon, its people, culture and traditions. I’d like to encourage people to support the festival, be entertained and learn more about the wonderful Lebanese culture.” 

You can buy tickets to the opening night here.